Kaufman’s group is studying the molecular interactions between interfaces. These molecular interactions determine whether the macroscopic interfaces, e.g., air-water interface droplet and air-glass interface, adhere or repel each other. The strength of the adhesion/repulsion between two macroscopic interfaces is manifested in many ways; for instance, the strength of the adhesion determines whether liquids spread or "pinned" on surfaces (see "Surface Wetting" below), or whether a lipid membrane can (or cannot) self-assembled on a surface (see "Biomimetic Membranes" below).Currently, the group is focusing on three different, yet related projects: (1) We measure (and model) the ability of liquids to spread on smooth or textured/roughened surfaces (often called 'surface wetting'). (2) We also study biological and biomimetic membranes, which can be used as a selective (for filtration) and/or indicative (for sensors) interface, and/or prevent the adhesion of bacteria (anti biofouling) to the surface. In addition, (3) we develop a new extension that will allow us to measure the absolute distance between the atomic force microscope probe and a surface, and will also allow us to measure the contact area of the probe and the surface. These two parameters, absolute distance and contact area, are crucial for shedding-light on the molecular interactions between two interfaces.

For more information regarding our research projects and/or interest in joining the group, please email to:

Dr. Yair Kaufman

Main Research Projects

Surface Wetting

Controlling the surface wettability is desirable for many applications, including non-wetting, self-cleaning, and antifouling surfaces; and for completely wetting/spreading applications, such as creams, cosmetics, and lubricant fluids. In this project, using the state-of-the-art nano-fabrication techniques, we prepare nano- and micro-textures and explore their effects on the contact angles.

AFM DevelopmentDesigning and building a new technique (to be discussed privately) that will expand the capabilities of commercially available atomic force microscopy (AFM).​

Biomimetic MembranesBiological membranes sense light, mechanical pressure, temperature, specific molecules and more. In addition, biological membranes can selectively (passively or actively) transport certain molecules, such as specific ions, and/or water molecules. During the last decade, it has been demonstrated that some of the functionalities of biological membranes can be realized with biomimetic membranes, and, in turn, these biomimetic membranes can be used for making the state-of-the-art bio-sensors and innovative separation processes. In this project, we explore the parameters and the mechanisms that govern the self-assembly of biomimetic membranes on nano-fabricated patterns.